Dr. Strange Movie Likely Happening Sooner Rather Than Later

Marvel Studios has spent the bulk of its time moving pieces around its metaphorical board in preparation for Joss Whedon’s The Avengers, which finally drops into theaters next May. And while the studio has hired directors for upcoming Iron Man and Thor sequels, it’s also keeping its options open for non-Avengers superheroes that could use an origin story and possible standalone franchise.

Up next, according to Marvel president Kevin Feige, appears to be Dr. Strange, according to remarks made during last weekend’s New York Comic Con. Feige tells Blastr.com that a feature film about the master of dark magic and sorcery probably will happen “sooner rather than later” and might even be part of what Feige calls “phase two” … meaning somewhere on the timeline alongside Iron Man 3 and Thor 2. That would mean casting and production decisions would need to start moving forward soon, and we’re not even aware of a Strange script or story idea (though the comics, which have been around since the 1960s, are overflowing with potential Strange plots).

Hardly a household name, Dr. Strange practices reality-bending sorcery and black magic. While he starred in his own book, Strange often appeared as a guest in other heroes' books, from Spider-Man to the Fantastic Four. He’d be an excellent character in a second Avengers film, as Strange’s powers often allow stories to shift into unknown dimensions, and Earth’s Mightiest Heroes are going to need some massive villains to fight if their franchise is going to keep extending and expanding.

But if Marvel follows the formula they’ve established, Dr. Strange will get an origin story first, and Feige hints that’s probably happening in the near future.